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Memories & Candles

“While working with Sharon, I was honored to speak with Frances many times on the phone. Sharon admired and loved her Mom so much. She had her...Read More »
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1 of 3 | Posted by: Ann Knauer - Shepherdsville, KY

“My heart goes out to the entire family. Ma was an inspiration to us all. She will be truly missed.
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2 of 3 | Posted by: Christy Preher - Louisville, KY

“We had many good times with Frances in our Red Hat Club. She was always an eager member.
I had many conversations with her and she usually stunned...Read More »
”
3 of 3 | Posted by: Doris Ann Robbins - Pewee Valley, KY

Frances was a member of St. Edward Catholic Church, Jeffersontown, KY. Frances began her career in 1954 spending 12 years with GE. After leaving the corporate world she became a prolific entrepreneur. Her first venture was as an independent manufacturers representative. After extensive Japanese style training she became an award winning floral designer. She opened her own business after years of designing for Louisville's major florists. Her lifelong passion for birds led her to opening "Gibson's Birdland" a retail storefront on Taylor Boulevard. She raised and sold parakeets, canaries and imported rare and exotic birds.

Her most enjoyable and successful venture was "Gilbert's Lake." It was known throughout the area as the cleanest, best kept fishing and park-like facility in the state, often featured in The Courier-Journal and local TV stations. Choosing not to retire, she managed 62 apartment units while working part time at Wal-Mart. She retired in 2008 after 12 years of service.

Her persistent and supportive family finally convinced her to retire from apartment management after 17 years. Frances remained active, joining the "Derby City Chicks," a local chapter of The Red Hat Society. At Signature Healthcare East, her home for five years, she was elected to the Hall of Fame and in addition won Gold Medals back to back years at their Senior Olympics. She was also very proud to be lovingly known for 50 years as the "Band Mom" for "The Monarchs." Frances was born on March 13, 1923 in New Albany, IN to the late Clemence and Mary Louise (Weber) Day. She was preceded in death by Patrick Gibson (infant son); brothers, Clem Day, Paul Day, Edgar Day and Bernard Day: and sisters, Agnes Mohney and Dorothy Naville. Her father fondly referred to his children as "seven days made a week." She is survived by her son, Mike Gibson (Carole); daughter, Sharon Preher (Bill); eight grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild.

Visitation will be 2-8 p.m. Friday at Rattermans Funeral Home, 12900 Shelbyville Road, East Louisville, KY, 40243. A private family memorial service will be held the following morning at 10 a.m. Frances donated her body to the U of L Body Bequeathal Program. -

Memories & Candles

While working with Sharon, I was honored to speak with Frances many times on the phone. Sharon admired and loved her Mom so much. She had her picture posted in her cube for everyone to see. She was not only her inspiration, but anyone who saw her picture became inspired as well. What a blessing she was to her family. Prayers for her family and wishing you all comfort in this time.

My heart goes out to the entire family. Ma was an inspiration to us all. She will be truly missed.

Posted by: Christy Preher - Louisville, KY Sep 11, 2013

We had many good times with Frances in our Red Hat Club. She was always an eager member.
I had many conversations with her and she usually stunned and amazed me with stories of her life. She is probably the most interesting and strongest woman I have ever known.
I know she is in a better place now and trying to find something to do.
I will miss seeing her and enjoying her sweetness.
Goodbye, to a wonderful woman and friend.